CDR Standards

The Open SUNY Course Quality Rubric (OSCQR) has 50 standards in 6 categories (Course Overview & Information, Course Technology & Tools, Design & Layout, Content & Activities, Interaction, Assessment & Feedback). 

The Course Design Review Working Group has identified 13 OSCQR standards to focus on for the initial Course Design Review process – Foundations of effective course design.

The 13 standards are organized around three core categories. Each standard includes a link to a detailed explanation and examples.

Course Structure and Layout

• Course includes Welcome and Getting Started content. [OSCQR 1-1]
• An orientation or overview is provided for the course overall, as well as in each module. Learners know how to navigate and what tasks are due. [OSCQR 1-2]
• Technical skills required for participation in course learning activities scaffolded in a timely manner. [OSCQR 2-12]
• A logical, consistent, and uncluttered layout is established. The course is easy to navigate (consistent color scheme and icon layout, related content organized together, self-evident titles). [OSCQR 3-16]

Syllabus and Policies

• A printable syllabus is available to learners. [OSCQR 1-4]
• Requisite skills for using technology tools (websites, software, and hardware) are clearly stated and supported with resources. [OSCQR 2-11]
• Expectations for timely and regular feedback from the instructor are clearly stated. [OSCQR 5-38]
• Expectations for interaction are clearly stated (netiquette, grade weighting, models/examples, and timing and frequency of contributions). [OSCQR 5-39]
• Course grading policies, including consequences of late submissions, are clearly stated in the course information area or syllabus. [OSCQR 6-44]

Learning Environment

• Course contains resources or activities intended to build a sense of class community, support open communication, and establish trust – between students and the instructor. [OSCQR 5-41]
• Course includes frequent and appropriate methods to assess learners’ mastery of content. [OSCQR 6-45]
• Criteria for the assessment of a graded assignment are clearly articulated (rubrics, exemplary work). [OSCQR 6-46]
• Learners have easy access to a well-designed and up-to-date gradebook. [OSCQR 6-49]